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Travel India and indulge in its mystical landscape

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Range of landscapes: stunning temples are visible across all of mystical india

13 May 2016 • 1:00pm

Kevin Coyd

India is a country that defies all stereotypes. Home to 1.2 billion people, it’s a thrilling kaleidoscope of different landscapes, cultures and climates. And whichever part of the nation you’d like to explore – from the hill stations of the Himalayas to the beaches of Goa – Steppes Travel can arrange your perfect Indian odyssey.

For more than 25 years, Steppes Travel has specialised in helping its clients uncover the most exotic and remote locations on Earth. Its aim will always be to show you the “must-see” highlights of amazing countries, alongside some lesser-known gems that are well off the tourist trail. Just as no two people are the same, so Steppes Travel believes that no two trips to India should be alike. Its destination experts – all of whom have lived and worked in the places they represent – will take time to find out exactly what you want from your holiday and then create your own personalised itinerary.

The possibilities of the subcontinent are endless. If you’re a first-time visitor to India, you may want to consider a Golden Triangle holiday. Steppes Travel can build an itinerary around the three cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, taking in such peerless monuments as the Red Fort, Taj Mahal and Amer Palace.

Desert paradise: the mysticism of Rajasthan will take your breath awayCredit:
Getty

Away from the metropolitan bustle, you can immerse yourself in the golden landscapes of the desert state of Rajasthan – home to two of the subcontinent’s finest palace-hotels, the opulent Umaid Bhawan and Rambagh Palace.

The contrast between Rajasthan and the coastal state of Kerala could scarcely be greater. Here, everything is lush and green. It’s a place of palm-fringed beaches and small villages on the banks of a vast network of lagoons and rivers known as the Backwaters. There are few more relaxing experiences than exploring the languid waterways on a traditional rice boat – except for taking part in an Ayurvedic treatment at one of the ashrams or spas for which Kerala is famous.

Guided holidays open up parts of India that attract few Western visitors. In the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, you can tour the isolated villagers and colourful monasteries of Ladakh, a stronghold of traditional Tibetan Buddhism. Or you can head up to the remote Himalayas, trekking through the rhododendron, pine and oak forests of the foothills and stay overnight in the villagers’ own homes.

One of the greatest draws of India is its wildlife, and it’s possible to arrange safaris in many parts of the country.

In Ladakh, you can join expert trackers to seek out the elusive snow leopard, as well as blue sheep, ibex and Ladakh urial. Known as the “ghost of the Himalaya”, the snow leopard is notoriously hard to spot, but with expert David Sonam as well as experienced chief tracker Tchewang Norbu and the help of the local community, you have the best possible chance of spotting these magical creatures while exploring your beautiful Himalayan surroundings. With a cosy homestay in a traditional lodge hosted by a Ladakhi family, you’ll also be given an insight into the culture of the local mountain people.

For many people with an interest in wildlife and conservation, sighting a tiger in the wild will be the realisation of a lifelong ambition. The “tyger, tyger burning bright” that inspired William Blake is the true king of the jungle and, as such, does not reveal himself to all visitors.

Steppes Travel has been offering tiger safaris for years and so is expert in dealing with Indian bureaucracy and the issues that can arise at various parks. Offering drives with private vehicles and access to some of the best parks – such as Tadoba National Park – Steppes works closely with you to create a wonderful jungle experience and the best chance of spotting the majestic Bengal tiger.

Tiger populations are to be found in 21 reserves around India, and Steppes Travel can provide up-to-date information on the best places to track the endangered animals – and without sharing your encounter with 10 other vehicles.

With Steppes Travel, you’ll always benefit from excellent value for money and a high level of protection. Its global network of contacts means it can negotiate the best rates with hotels and local guides. All the funds that you pay towards the trip will be fully protected and you’ll be shielded from unexpected fluctuations in exchange rates.

In case of any hitches while you’re abroad, you’ll always have access to emergency support, including a UK contact 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s part and parcel of the company philosophy of going beyond the ordinary – and it’s why so many clients choose to travel with Steppes Travel time and time again.